Officials hope to draw retailers to downtown spaces like this former J.C. Penney building in Battle Creek.

Written by

Free Press staff and Gannett Michigan

Development officials have launched a new program to help retail businesses open shop in the heart of the city as they look for creative ways to fill up downtown Battle Creek's vacant storefronts.

Last week, Battle Creek Unlimited's Downtown Partnership unveiled its Retail Acceleration Program. Under the program, retail businesses will be provided rental support in exchange for the business owner maintaining specific hours and participation in training and mentoring. The applications also require the development of a ...